Choosing the Right Backpack

Backpacks are the most important piece of equipment you will own during your travels. Think of it as your new home, where everything you possess is stored. Now you must lug it around on your back for the next few weeks, months or even years as you backpack the world. This list is intended to provide you with some basic knowledge when choosing the right backpack for your travels.

Questions to ask yourself

Where am I traveling to?

Are you an urban backpacker traveling through European cities or are you hiking mountains in New Zealand? Or maybe you’re doing both.

How long am I traveling for?

A few days, weeks, months or more? An extended traveler will possibly need to pack more clothes for varying environments.

What type of accommodations will I be using?

(hotel, hostel, guest house, host family, camping)
If you are staying in hostels you should consider pack security. If camping is your preference you will need a more rugged bag to endure the elements.

What type of transportation will I be using?

(plane, bus, car, motorbike, bicycle)
When using local buses in Latin America you need to ensure your bag is secure and strong. Traveling via bus through less developed countries is an adventure in itself and can cause wear and tear on a pack. Those traveling via two wheels should consider lighter packs.

What style traveler am I?

A flashpacker may carry items like a laptop, camcorder, SLR camera, iPod, smartphone, and external drives. A minimalist may pack a tent, sleeping bag, camping stove and dry food. You may be a combination of the two styles.

A Backpacks Features

Backpacks today are loaded with complex features to meet the demands of this growing segment of travelers. We all have varying priorities when preparing to make our purchase, but it’s important to understand the features we may or may not be getting based on our personal needs. Some of us are on a shoestring budget and others have money to spend. Here are some of the common features and characteristics associated to backpacks.

Volume

The volume of a backpack is typically measured in Liters, and determines how much you can pack into the bag. A 30L pack will do fine for a weekend getaway. Long term travelers should consider 55L or higher.

Frame

The internal frame backpack has become the most common used today. The frame resides within the backpack versus and external frame. These type of packs offer more flexibility because the weight is held close to your torso.

Gender

Packs will often be designated as unisex, but there are distinct characteristics between a male and female pack. A backpack built for a male will have a slightly wider shoulder harness and longer torso. Depending on your individual build, don’t hesitate to try either.

Size

Backpacks can also come in various sizes such as small, medium and large. The size of the individual pack will also impact the original volume listed. For instance, a 70L pack becomes 76L when in a large size. The backpack may also feature an adjustable suspension system which allows you to alter the torso length.

Load type

Traditional backpacks have only been accessible through an opening panel on the top of the pack, however more recently they have begun to offer side loading panels. The side loading panel offers you easier access to your pack contents, but will add weight due to additional materials used. A backpack may also provide an access point at the bottom for sleeping bag storage. This compartment is usually separated by material from the main compartment area. The benefit here is that if you are camping, each night your can easily access your sleeping bag without emptying your entire bag contents.

Durability

This term is very subjective, but important based on your backpacking needs. Durability can be measured by the type of material used throughout the entire pack. A thicker gauge material will add wear and tear protection. Straps made of a stronger plastic might hold up longer. Check the material used on the bottom of the backpack. In many cases it’s double lined or a thicker gauge material. In extreme cases you may find the bottom is made of rubber or leather. The material used for the stays or framesheet, which both add stability and protection can vary greatly. Remember, added durability typically results in a heavier pack. Take a close look at the stitching as well. The material used for straps will always be sufficient, but the stitching rarely matches the strength of the strap material. Box stitching is the strongest for areas that are going to carry the weight. Don’t worry, the straps will never tear, but they can break away from the seam or the plastic clips can crack.

Compartments/Pockets

As backpacks become more advanced, it seems that the number of compartments is increasing. A top load panel backpack might have only two side mesh pockets for water bottles. Packs have also been incorporating a top lid compartment that can be used for easily accessing maps, keys, sunscreen etc. As packs become more complex pockets can be found on the hip belt and running vertically along the sides of the packs. Additionally, the interior of the main compartment can become compartmentalized for more organized storage. Travelers may opt to purchase a daypack independent of the large backpack, however some backpacks offer a detachable daypack for easier organization. If you require a specialized daypack for camera equipment this may not work for you, but consider how you will travel with both. Some daypacks are flexible enough to fold up and store in your main backpack, however a heavily compartmentalized one is probably not. All these added pockets and compartments will add weight to your backpack. Don’t forget to purchase a rain cover that fits your pack. Always choose a rain cover that is slightly larger, because you may be hanging boots off the backside and the rain cover will need to stretch a little further to cover these.

Security

Security is a topic some travelers spend too much time on, while others prefer to ignore. There is no correct approach to how concerned you should be with the safety of your possessions. It’s really up to you and how you feel. Backpacks do offer several options to increase security. The thickness or gauge of the material can make it more difficult to cut into or tear your pack. In very high end packs the material can include a metal mesh for slash protection. In addition, you can purchase a metal mesh protective covering for your pack. The option always exists to use combination or key luggage locks on your bag as well. Just ensure your backpack has metal zipper handles, because many these days only have pull strings. You can request a tailor to add metal zippers to your bag if you plan on using locks. Look at the bag and ask yourself how accessible are the zippers, pockets etc and determine if you feel confident with its design. Storing your backpack in a dull duffel bag during airplane or bus rides can also deter a thief.

Making an educated decision

You now understand many features and specifications of backpacks and you have asked yourself all the right questions. Put the two together and you should be able to find the pack that is right for you. If you are backpacking around the world in various environments which include hiking and visiting urban cities, you like gadgets, or will be bringing a laptop and dance shoes, then consider 65 or more Liters of volume, high durability with lots of pockets. If you are hiking Patagonia for two weeks, weight will be a significant factor. Look for a bag that is light weight, minimal pockets, top load only, but somewhat durable. Lastly, the most important factor we haven’t discussed yet is comfort. Ultimately, you must feel comfortable wearing the pack. This is going to be your best friend for a while and you will want to get along nicely. If you are considering purchasing your backpack on-line make sure they have a reasonable return policy. It is advisable to visit a store to make sure the backpack feels right with weight in it before making any purchase. Find a retailer that has knowledgeable employees that are excited to educate you on finding the right backpack.

Do you have any recommendations for a Canadian (in Ottawa), woman, 5’9 medium build, who plans on travelling Europe for two months with a netbook and camera? I’ve been looking and can’t seem to find the right one. I will be staying in hostels and people’s floor, couches or other similar accommodations. I’m planning on travelling by various mediums such as bus, train, possibly air plane and hitchhiking. Any directions or help would be greatly appreciated!

Hey looking for a back pack for myself… I'm 5'8 medium build. Travelling around Turkey for a month.. need a detectable back pack if possible and space for a sleep bag.
I have know idea what I am look for… HELP please 🙂

Tan, your best option is to visit a store such as REI or EMS if you are in the States and try them on. Each typically has a unique fit and it's important for it to feel comfortable on your hips and shoulders. The detachable pack is nice, but not as comfortable as an individual day pack. I struggle to find a detachable pack that has all I want. The size of the pack would be determined by how much you want to take with you. If you are camping (sleeping bag, tent stove etc) then you need more space. If you just need a sleep sac for a hostel bed, then you can go light. The amount of shoes and jeans you pack will also take up a significant amount of room. Once you buy the bag, do a few packing tests before you tear off all the tags. If it's too small or too big, return it for another one. Leave yourself plenty of time to do this. Good luck!

I am looking for a day back pack next to my big back pack. I would like a small one in which my laptop and mirrow reflex camera will fit. I experienced several ones, but they are of material which doesn't ventilate in hot weather. I am looking forward to your advice. Thanks. Iny Koning

Great article. Some good info. I am currently researching to find a “first” backpack for my son who will turn 11 next week. He wants to start coming along on my trips up to the Sierras with my buddies. We are all excited to have him start joining the group. I have looked a quite a few and just can’t seem to figure out the best way to go for him. He is tall and still growing, so I want to try and find him something that will last for a few years at least. He is currently 5′-4″ and growing like a weed…..lol I would love to hear any recommendations anyone might have for a good starter pack. Most trips are 3-4 days, with the occasional 7-10 day jaunt….:-)

Jason, if your son is already 5’4 and growing fast, opt for an adult backpack. He is just about to outgrow the youth packs. Make sure the torso is adjustable and look for something in the 30-35L capacity range for multi-day trips. Here is a good example in that category: http://www.rei.com/product/808309/osprey-talon-33-pack. 7-10 day trips are much harder and it depends on the climate. Cold temps require more storage room for thicker clothes. As long as he isn’t the one carrying the tent, stoves or food, he can still get by at 35L. But, once you start to distribute food and cooking utensils within the group, 35L is going to be challenging for a 9-day trip.

I just got a Osprey Waypoint at REI (on sale now for $180 and free shipping). Mine is 80 Liter. I haven’t start my trip yet, but a couple of people recommended a bigger bag that not necessary needs to be filled all the way and most of the bags have the ability to become smaller. Anyway, just a thought…

Pamela, that’s a good idea Pamela. You can’t make a small bag bigger, but you can make a big bag smaller. An 80 liter bag is about as big as they come. At 6ft tall I had an 80L bag and it was quite heavy. I am hoping you won’t ever have to fill that bad boy up.

We use Osprey Farpoint (55 for me, 70 for my husband). I couldn’t imagine a better pack for our needs traveling for a year through Central/South America. Osprey’s lifetime warranty makes use feel secure along with the boat load of other features sUch as the ability to zip the backpack straps into the pack to form a duffel. The front panel loading is a clencher for me along with the attachable day pack. This is key when flying! I love this pack and highly recommend it! We laugh almost weekly about finding ANOTHER sweet feature 🙂

Great thorough post! I absolutely LOVE my Osprey Waypoint (we also did a choosing backpack post on our site that includes a review of this backpack). The best part about the Waypoint is that it has a daypack that is detachable which fits my laptop and all of my camera gear, but doesn’t look like a camera bag and it’s very light. I’ve gone through a ton of camera bags trying to find the right one and somehow I got lucky with this daypack being the best way to carry all my camera and laptop gear.

I agree with some of the comments above regarding smaller pack size (at least for those who are not camping). I’ve been traveling through SE Asia for the last 2 months with a 46L pack and could probably go a bit smaller (note that this even includes my work gear including a15″ MacBook Pro). No, I don’t have dozens of outfits to wear, but when you’re walking through Thailand in the heat and humidity, you will be glad you picked a smaller pack. It is also surprising how little you really need once you get on the road. I even gave away some clothing in Indonesia that I wasn’t wearing.

I am also planning to head to colder climates in 2011, and will just buy warm clothes at that point rather than lug them around Asia. Just remember that even in remote areas you can buy almost anything you need. Better to pack light and find out what you need when you get there (where it is usually much cheaper).

Absolutely Brie, choosing the size of your backpack is entirely a personal preference. And typically the lighter you can possibly go, the more comfortable you will be, especially as a hiker. When we first left for our long term trip we over packed clothes, and as you did we ended up giving them away immediately. Now, we know, you can buy anything on the road, except some nice ExOfficio underwear.

I just went backpack shopping yesterday. I decided on the Deuter Futura (32 Liters). It’s extremely comfortable.
I will be travelling very light and minimalistic, so 32 Literes is definitely enough. Especially in southeast Asia, where it’s warm everywhere and I don’t need thick clothes.

That’s a nice article with some good infos for everyone who is thinking of buying a backpack.

I’ve bought myself a backpack which you can open a bit similar like a usual suitcase. That way it’s easier to get to your stuff. But you can’t upload it with extra space on the top of it, which is fine, too. That way my wife isn’t allowed to shop that much. 🙂

Thanks for the reply. I went back to the store and confirmed that it’s not a 30l backpack, but a 44 L – sorry 😉

We’re going to do some “trial” trips here in Ecuador to see how it goes. We recently went on a week trip with a small backpack (about 16L), and it was OK. It was challenging to fit everything inside, but I’m glad I did it because of the weight. My 4.5 year old is a great walker, but I don’t want to make him carry anything so he can go further.

We’ll keep “trial traveling” here. Ecuador is a great place for backpackers, by the way 😉

The preferred size of a backpack can very greatly from individual to individual. If you know you can pack everything in a 30L bag for long term travel, then go for it! In my opinion it will be a challenge, but it’s not impossible. Before you purchase your pack, lay all your belongings that you expect to travel with on the floor. Get an idea of the size of all the items. This will provide you some guidance on finding a pack that is right for you. If you are still unsure, purchase a backpack from a story that has a return policy This will enable you to do some test packing to ensure it’s the right size for you. Let us know what size you get and your backpacking plans!

I´ve spent several hours looking for a nice backpack online, just to realize the one that looked perfect is way too expensive, not to mention that I live in Ecuador and shipping /custom fees would be very high.

Anyway, you recommend a 30 L backpack for a weekend travel and I’ve beel looking for that size for a world travel with my 4yo son. All should fit inside the backpack, according to my plans, of course.

I’m small and tiny, and large backpacks are difficult for me to carry (I look like a backpack with legs and arms, lol). Also, I should save extra energy take care of my son and eventually hold him (he’s a good walker, though).

Am I being unrealistic about the size of the backpack? I don’t plan to carry a tend. Maybe very light sleeping bags. Also, our clothes are small 🙂